Our work in reservoirs involves behavioural
and physiological monitoring of fishes using various
remote and direct techniques. We also conduct species
inventories, population assessments, and measurements of
general health and physical condition of reservoir
organisms. We monitor and minimize (when possible) biological impacts associated with water abstraction, draw-down events, thermal pollution, agricultural pollution, industrial pollution, recreational angling, commercial angling, as well as other human activities. We also provide recommendations for minimizing harmful ecological effects associated with both natural and anthropogenic
impacts.
In 2005 and 2006 we developed a five year fisheries
management plan for the Binbrook Reservoir in Southern
Ontario (a relatively small reservoir). From 2004
until 2011 (and beyond) we participated in a project
that identified the only naturally spawning populations
of endangered
razorback suckers in
the world. This research was conducted in Lake
Mead (Nevada/Arizona) which is the largest manmade
reservoir in the United States.
In 2015 we began a 2 year telemetry project in Lake Eugenia to assess
the effects of invasive species, water-level fluctuations and
other environmental factors on habitat quality and recruitment
of Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides). The
main objective of this study is to provide valuable
baseline data, which are essential for monitoring and
tracking changes in the lake. In 2016 we began working
with Environment Canada on developing a drawdown
protocol for a wetland that supports endangered fish
- Lake Chubsucker (Erimyzon sucetta).